Microsoft Keyboard/Mouse PY9-00002 Desktop 850 Combo Wireless Black with AES Retail
Bottom line: The Microsoft Keyboard/Mouse PY9-00002 Desktop 850 Combo Wireless Black ($139.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-07): AES encryption encodes keystrokes, unusual at this tier; main trade-off: 2.4GHz dongle only, no Bluetooth pairing option.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-07. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ AES encryption encodes keystrokes, unusual at this tier
- ✓ 2.4GHz link works up to 15 feet from the PC
- ✓ One transceiver drives both keyboard and mouse
- ✓ Transceiver snaps under the mouse for laptop travel
Cons
- ✗ 2.4GHz dongle only, no Bluetooth pairing option
- ✗ 1000 dpi is low for gaming or 4K displays
- ✗ Occupies a USB-A port that newer laptops lack
- ✗ Windows-oriented shortcut and media keys, not Mac-labeled
Manufacturer description
The Microsoft Desktop 850 Wireless Combo (PY9-00002) pairs a full-size keyboard and optical mouse over a single 2.4GHz connection, so you clear two cables off your desk with one snap-in transceiver. That link holds a reliable signal up to 15 feet, which is enough to drive a living-room PC from the couch or step back from a standing desk without the cursor stuttering. Microsoft builds Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) into the keyboard, encoding your keystrokes so passwords, banking logins, and client data are not broadcast in the clear across the room. The mouse uses LED optical tracking at…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Microsoft Keyboard/Mouse PY9-00002 Desktop 850 Combo Wireless Black using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the gaming peripherals category. Compare with similarly-priced alternatives in the gaming peripherals category before committing. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for gaming peripherals of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Microsoft Desktop 850 use Bluetooth or a USB receiver?
It uses a 2.4GHz USB transceiver, not Bluetooth. The dongle is included and snaps into the underside of the mouse for storage.
How far can I sit from my PC with this combo?
Microsoft rates the 2.4GHz wireless connection for a reliable signal up to 15 feet from the transceiver.
What does the AES encryption on the keyboard actually do?
Advanced Encryption Standard encodes your keystrokes between the keyboard and receiver, protecting personal and business information from being read over the air.
Is the mouse precise enough for design or gaming work?
The mouse uses LED optical tracking at 1000 dpi for responsive everyday cursor control. That is standard office sensitivity, below the higher-dpi sensors gamers and designers typically want.
Key Features
- Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which protects your personal and business information by encoding your keystrokes
- 2.4GHz wireless delivers a reliable connection with up to a 15-foot range
- Optical Technology 1000 dpi provides responsive cursor control
- Snap-in transceiver stows conveniently under the mouse LED optical tracking technology
- Windows shortcut keys provide easy access to commonly used functions Media keys for music and video control
Full Specifications
| Brand | Microsoft |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Connectivity | Wireless, 2.4GHz |
| Model Number | PY9-00002 |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Connection Type | Wireless |
| Keyboard Layout | QWERTY |
| Mfr Part Number | PY9-00002 |
| Special Feature | Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 128-Bit Encryption |
| Antenna Location | Office |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, Personal Computer |
| Movement Detection | Optical |
| Number of Batteries | 2 AA batteries required. (included) |
| Keyboard Description | Indoor |
| Connectivity Technology | Radio Frequency |
| Other Special Features of the Product | Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 128-Bit Encryption |
Ready to buy?
Microsoft Keyboard/Mouse PY9-00002 Desktop 850 Combo Wireless Black with AES Retail is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-07. Price and availability subject to change.
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